The Ernest Sisei Ikoli Foundation has hailed Chief Ernest Ikoli, Nigerian politician, nationalist, and pioneering journalist, as a crusader of truth and a symbol of the struggle against oppression and discrimination in Nigeria.

In a statement released Wednesday to mark his birthday, the foundation praised Ikoli for mentoring journalists, shaping political thought, and driving Nigeria’s independence from colonial rule.

“Chief Ernest Ikoli reformed, led, and inspired. He campaigned for the birth of the Second Republic and declared his work complete once Nigeria achieved political independence,” the statement said.

Ikoli, who served as assistant editor of the Lagos Weekly Record, first editor of the Daily Times of Nigeria, and publisher of the African Messenger, also helped establish the Marcus Garvey Universal Negro Improvement Association, People’s Union, Nigeria Youth Movement, and the Action Group.

The foundation emphasised Ikoli’s vision of a united Africa, saying, “He saw no Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, or Ijaw—only one Nigeria, one Africa, and one destiny.”

Chief Anthony George-Ikoli (SAN), Executive Vice Chairman of the foundation, praised Ikoli for shaping politicians and labour leaders, inspiring journalists, and improving workers’ conditions through advocacy and legislation.

“Chief Ernest Ikoli wanted a united, industrialised, and economically self-reliant nation,” the statement noted, highlighting his intellectual depth, leadership, Christian values, moderation, and commitment to representative democracy.

Ikoli fought alongside nationalists Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello in Nigeria’s struggle for independence.

Born on March 25, 1893, in Nembe, he passed away on October 21 at age 67 and was buried at Ikoyi Cemetery.